Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment Management (Level 5)

Construction and the Built Environment Management

Applied Construction and Built Environment Management is a multifaceted discipline dedicated to harnessing advanced methodologies to optimize construction projects and management strategies. It encompasses innovative approaches aimed at ensuring structural integrity, streamlining construction processes, and promoting sustainable development principles. Professionals in this field integrate principles from engineering, architecture, project management, and sustainability to devise solutions for contemporary construction challenges, spanning from efficient project delivery to environmental conservation.

The Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 5) builds upon the foundational knowledge established in prior studies and serves as the second year of the Bachelor’s Degree program in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 7). Tailored to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry, this diploma equips students with advanced skills and insights crucial for success in diverse roles within the sector. Delivered by both local experts and international practitioners, the program emphasizes practical training and industry-specific competencies, fostering graduates who are adept, innovative, and entrepreneurial in their approach to construction project management.

Designed for individuals with a passion for construction advancement, the Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management offers a dynamic blend of theoretical exploration and hands-on learning. Graduates emerge prepared for a wide array of career opportunities in construction, spanning from project management to sustainable construction consultancy.

At Level 5, the program delves deeper into construction technology and built environment management, offering specialized knowledge and skills essential for professional growth in the field. Moreover, it serves as a pivotal progression point for students aiming to pursue further academic achievements, including a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 7), enabling them to refine their expertise and specialize in their chosen area of interest.

Who is this qualification for?

Who is this qualification for? Professionals in the field of applied construction and built environment management are indispensable in today’s construction landscape characterized by innovation and industry progress. As construction plays a pivotal role in shaping infrastructure development, there is an increasing demand for skilled individuals proficient in leveraging technology to optimize construction practices.

The Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 5) is tailored for individuals already working or aspiring to work in various sectors of the construction industry, aiming to enhance their career trajectories and expertise in construction technology and built environment management. This program is well-suited for those seeking specialized skills and a robust understanding of construction technology to excel in their current roles or transition into advanced career opportunities within the construction domain.

Whether you’re currently engaged in construction-related professions or are venturing into the field, this diploma curriculum provides a comprehensive blend of theoretical insights and hands-on training crucial for success in various roles, including:

  • Construction Project Manager
  • Building Technology Consultant
  • Site Supervisor
  • Quantity Surveyor
  • Building Inspector
  • Construction Material Manager
  • Sustainable Construction Advocate
  • Building Information Modeling (BIM) Specialist
  • Health and Safety Manager
  • Infrastructure Development Planner

As the construction sector increasingly adopts technology and innovation, individuals equipped with expertise in applied construction and built environment management are positioned to drive significant changes in infrastructure development. This diploma equips learners with the requisite skills and knowledge to thrive in this dynamic industry, offering promising career prospects and avenues for professional advancement.

What makes this course special?

The Marvelous University of Technology and Applied Sciences (MUTAS) offers Bachelor of Technology Degrees which are applied (hands-on) learning qualifications. The Marvelous University of Technology and Applied Sciences qualifications place greater emphasis on self-employment and employer engagement and work readiness. MUTAS-Zambia provides 70% practical and 30% theory teaching and learning methodologies coupled with various practical learning-focused activities that fully engage our students. MUTAS programs in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management are work-related qualifications for students taking their first steps into employment, or for those already in employment and seeking career development opportunities.

Why you must study with MUTAS?

At the Marvelous University of Technology and Applied Sciences (MUTAS), we know how important it is for career ambitious people to get the right education to start and further develop their careers.

With today’s industry and employers demanding so much more than just a qualification to contain the effects of global competition and to attain a competitive edge, here are the main six (6) reasons why you must choose to study at MUTAS:

Work Readiness

MUTAS courses will give you real hands on experience in pursuing your education. It is what is called learning by doing it or action learning. Based on a 70% practical (action learning, action research, projects, reflective thinking, critical thinking, etc.) and 30% theory teaching and learning and assessments methodologies, all the MUTAS students become work ready (prepared) during their first year of study and graduate with strong work ethics, analytical, problem solving, communication and entrepreneurial skills which are the major factors that employers are looking for in their new recruits.

Employability

MUTAS higher vocational, technical and professional courses prepare students for employment and self-employment. The MUTAS courses develop a student’s employability skills as they offer the experience of real-life practical tasks and work placements. MUTAS qualifications are generally well-regarded by employers as the courses enable students to develop useful hands-on skills in their respective fields of study and in critical areas such as problem-solving, time management, entrepreneurial, communication, work behavior, visionary and focus minded, team work, and project planning, execution to evaluation. The knowledge and skills you get from MUTAS programs will make you be sought after by employers locally and globally. MUTAS helps students to gain strong knowledge and skills that are essential to start and successfully run their own businesses and/or to be appreciated as competent and productive employees that every employer would like to hire.

Relevant

MUTAS courses are designed and developed with the help of employers, industrial experts, professional bodies, higher education experts, and lecturers. This keeps the MUTAS curriculum to be industry-driven and relevant for today’s and the future’s job market and self-employment. MUTAS qualifications provide students with industry-specific knowledge, skills, and competencies that make graduates’ work outputs to be relevant to their employers’ missions, visions, and goals.

Practical Teaching and Assessments

The MUTAS teaching and learning is based on the seven (7) major principles of teaching and learning through which theory knowledge is practically applied to various practical teaching and learning methods including action learning, projects supported by verifiable tangible evidences (outcomes), critical reflective thinking, case scenarios, job placements, industrial site visits, public lectures led by industrial experts, etc.

The assessment for MUTAS courses is largely based on regular coursework and work experience, which makes them an ideal option for those who crumble under the pressure of exams.

All the MUTAS programs are assessed through objective and rigor-based assignments and projects for which origination is examined through the Turnitin IT Application to ensure that each student submits his/her own true work. The outcome of these assignments must be in an implementable practical and quality standard.  

Career and Education Progression

Employers value MUTAS qualifications as the courses are industry-centered and directed. In other words, unlike academic programs, the MUTAS courses give students industry-specific knowledge and skills which makes them readily employable. This, combined with the problem-solving, time management, entrepreneurial, communication, work behavior, visionary and focus-minded, teamwork, and project planning skills they gained throughout their learning process give the MUTAS graduates a strong competitive edge to progress in senior job positions and to further pursue their postgraduate professional degrees such as Masters to Professional Doctorate Degree programs at various reputable higher education institutions/universities.

Reputation and Prestige

  • The industry relevance, practicality, career-specific and quality of the MUTAS qualification will make you to stand out and visibly be seen and noticed in a cloud of many academically qualified graduates.
  • As more employers expect their new employees to have relevant practical skills and competencies than costly academic knowledge, MUTAS makes your CV and profile stand out.
  • MUTAS is known for stringent quality standards that govern the provision of its higher vocational, technical and professional courses. MUTAS is also known for its practical, relevant and Industry driven courses.

The above values, compounded with the work ethics, entrepreneurial and problem-solving skills you will learn and practice while studying at MUTAS will grant you the respect, reputation and prestige within the industry sector you will work.

Qualification Purpose and Outcomes

Upon completion of the Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 5), students will acquire the following advanced skills and competencies:

  • Develop intricate designs for construction projects aimed at maximizing efficiency in production processes.
  • Design medium-scale construction systems tailored to address specific project requirements and constraints.
  • Assess the implications of component alterations within construction systems on overall functionality and performance.
  • Utilize state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and simulation tools to analyze and resolve complex issues in construction management.
  • Expertly execute engineering processes to fabricate construction materials or deliver services within a collaborative team setting.
  • Apply entrepreneurial skills to establish and oversee successful ventures in applied construction technology or related sectors.
  • Progress toward higher qualifications, such as the Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 6), to broaden their professional horizons within the construction engineering domain.

These competencies empower graduates to thrive in diverse roles within the construction industry, ranging from project management to construction technology development, while contributing to sustainable construction practices and innovations.

How will I learn?

The MUTAS tutors/lecturers are equipped with various traditional teaching methods which are all used to create and develop Vibrant, Skilled, Competent, and Work-prepared Entrepreneurial Technicians, Technologists, and Professionals.

The teaching and learning practices involve 70% practical and 30% theory methodologies by applying a wide range of action learning techniques stipulated in the course specification.

What does the course involve?

The Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 5) builds upon the foundational knowledge established in the Certificate in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 4). This program is designed to provide students with advanced skills and insights crucial for success in diverse roles within the construction and built environment management sector.

Throughout the program, students will delve deeper into key areas of construction and built environment management, gaining a deeper understanding of advanced concepts and practices. The curriculum includes a mix of theoretical learning, applied theory, and practical training, ensuring that students are well-equipped to tackle real-world challenges in construction projects.

Success in this program requires effective time management and focused dedication. Students will engage with a comprehensive range of units, each of which will have assessments including tests, assignments, examinations, and integrated action projects. These assessments form the core evaluation framework, complemented by additional tasks such as practical-based homework, presentations, and projects assigned by lecturers.

To excel in this program, students must actively monitor and familiarize themselves with developments within the construction and built environment management field. Regular visits to construction sites, interaction with industry professionals, and staying updated with relevant news and articles are essential for staying informed and adapting to industry trends and innovations.

By actively engaging with real-world projects and industry developments, students will cultivate practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for success in the dynamic and evolving landscape of construction and built environment management.

Assessment Methods

The MUTAS programs are assessed using a combination of:

  1. Informal Assessments
  2. Formal Assessments

Informal assessments are conducted by lecturers on each covered component of the unit outcome to weigh knowledge created into his/her students so that necessary teaching practice adjustments can be made as appropriate.

Formal Assessments are further classified into two parts:

  • Formal Continuous Assessments which comprise of:
  1. Major Test
  2. An Integrated Action Project
  • Formal Final Assessments which comprise of:
  1. Major Examination
  2. Unit Assignments

What are the Career Progression Opportunities?

Upon completion of the Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 5), graduates have a wide range of career progression opportunities in the construction and built environment sector. The practical and theoretical knowledge acquired during the program equips them for various roles, including

Construction Project Manager

Overseeing construction projects from inception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

Building Services Engineer

 Designing, installing, and maintaining mechanical and electrical systems within buildings, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and lighting systems.

Quantity Surveyor

Estimating and managing costs for construction projects, including budgeting, tendering, and contract administration.

Site Manager

Managing day-to-day operations on construction sites, including coordinating workers, materials, and equipment to ensure projects progress smoothly and safely.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) Coordinator

Implementing and managing BIM processes and technologies to improve collaboration and efficiency in construction projects.

Environmental Sustainability Specialist

Assessing and implementing environmentally sustainable practices in construction projects to minimize environmental impact and enhance sustainability.

Building Inspector

Inspecting construction sites and completed buildings to ensure compliance with building codes, regulations, and quality standards.

Urban Planner

Designing and managing the development of urban areas, including land use planning, infrastructure development, and environmental conservation.

Facilities Manager

Managing the maintenance, operation, and improvement of buildings and facilities to ensure they meet the needs of occupants efficiently and safely.

Construction Health and Safety Officer

Implementing health and safety policies and procedures on construction sites to protect workers and prevent accidents.

These roles offer opportunities for career advancement and specialization within the construction and built environment sector. Graduates of the Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management are well-prepared to contribute to the sustainable development and management of construction projects and infrastructure.

What are Articulation Opportunities?

The credit transfers from other programs offered by other institutions or other MUTAS programs will be dealt with according to MUTAS rules and regulations on Recognition of Prior Learning. Provided that an applicant has a qualification accredited by The Higher Education Authority (HEA) or by The Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority TEVETA and verifiable through the NQF, the MUTAS rules provide for course by course credits as well as credit transfer by volume under certain conditions. Maximum credits that can be granted from none technical (hands-on) programs are 15% of the credits for a qualification. Maximum credits that can be granted from the technical (hands-on) programs of similar standards with those of MUTAS are 50% of the credits for a qualification.

What career opportunities can this lead to?

Upon completion of the Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 5), graduates unlock a plethora of rewarding career opportunities within the construction and built environment sector. This diploma serves as an essential qualification for individuals aspiring to refine specialized skills and establish a robust foundation in applied construction and built environment management. Graduates of this program are prepared for roles such as:

Junior Construction Project Manager

Assisting in the coordination and management of construction projects, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

Junior Building Services Engineer

Supporting the design, installation, and maintenance of mechanical and electrical systems within buildings.

Junior Quantity Surveyor

Assisting in estimating and managing costs for construction projects, including budgeting, tendering, and contract administration.

Junior Site Manager

Participating in the supervision of day-to-day operations on construction sites, including the coordination of workers, materials, and equipment.

Junior Building Information Modeling (BIM) Coordinator

Assisting in the implementation and management of BIM processes and technologies to enhance collaboration and efficiency in construction projects.

Junior Environmental Sustainability Specialist

Contributing to the assessment and implementation of environmentally sustainable practices in construction projects to minimize environmental impact.

Junior Building Inspector

Participating in inspections of construction sites and completed buildings to ensure compliance with building codes, regulations, and quality standards.

Junior Urban Planner

Supporting the design and management of urban development projects, including land use planning and infrastructure development.

Junior Facilities Manager

Assisting in the maintenance, operation, and improvement of buildings and facilities to meet occupants’ needs efficiently and safely.

Junior Construction Health and Safety Officer

Participating in the implementation of health and safety policies and procedures on construction sites to protect workers and prevent accidents.

These roles offer opportunities for career growth and progression within the construction and built environment sector, enabling individuals to contribute effectively to sustainable development and infrastructure management.

What are the Fees?

Our fees include:

  • Application/Registration Fees
  • Tuition Fees
  • Other Fees include Laboratory Fees, Study Manuals, industrial site tours, action research, etc. (where and if applicable).

For more information about our fees, please contact any of our Call Centre at any of our Campuses or the Marketing and Public Relationships Department.

Funding Opportunities

There are many funding options for the MUTAS accredited programs. Most of our students have over the past years been funded by their employers while others finance their studies on their own. Students can also apply for bursaries with The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services via the CDF Skills Development Bursary sponsorship. MUTAS also provides scholarships and bursaries to students who meet requirements as stipulated in our annual prospectus.

Withdrawal/Cancellation

Any cancellations/withdraw or refunds are executed as per the MUTAS policies. For more details, refer to the Students Registration Agreement and the Withdraw Policy.

The Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 5) comprises fourteen units, designed to be completed over the course of one year. The program offers flexible study options, including Face-to-Face Full-Time, Face-to-Face Part-Time, and Distance Learning formats. Students will engage in Two (2) weekend Face-to-Face sessions per month, along with Two (2) Block Weeks Face-to-Face sessions per Semester. Blended Learning and Virtual (Online) Learning modalities are also available, with the exception of Engineering Programmes.

This structured approach to learning allows students to balance their academic commitments with other responsibilities while immersing themselves in comprehensive coursework. The combination of face-to-face sessions, block weeks, and online learning ensures a dynamic and interactive learning experience that caters to diverse learning styles and preferences.

Throughout the program, students will delve into a range of subjects relevant to construction and built environment management, covering essential theoretical concepts and practical applications. The curriculum is carefully crafted to align with industry standards and emerging trends, preparing graduates to address contemporary challenges and opportunities in the construction sector.

By offering a blend of traditional and innovative learning methods, the Diploma in Applied Construction and Built Environment Management (Level 5) equips students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for success in the dynamic field of construction and built environment management.

Total Unit/Modules

The following is a compressive list of course units/modules you will cover in this program:

Diploma in Applied Construction and The Built Environment Management (Level 5)

 

  • CCBEM201 Advanced Construction Techniques and Materials
  • CCBEM202 Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Digital Construction
  • CCBEM203 Construction Project Management
  • CCBEM204 Sustainable Building Practices and Green Construction
  • CCBEM205 Building Services Engineering
  • CCBEM206 Construction Health and Safety Management
  • CCBEM207 Cost Estimation and Quantity Surveying
  • CCBEM208 Infrastructure Development and Urban Planning
  • CCBEM209 Risk Management in Construction Projects
  • 1STU201 Entrepreneurship and Business Development
  • 1STU202 Applied Statistics for Decision-Making
  • 1STU203 Project Management
  • 1STU204 Professional Work Etiquettes and Employability
  • 1STU205 Specialized Industrial-related Project

Work placement/experience requirements

While there are no specific mandatory work placement or experience elements required for the Diploma in Applied Construction and The Built Environment Management (Level 5), students are strongly encouraged to apply theoretical knowledge through practical learning activities outlined in the qualification specification. This hands-on approach enables students to gain valuable experience and apply learned theories in real-world construction and built environment settings, thereby enhancing their understanding and skillset in construction management, project execution, and sustainable building practices.

Completion of Study Enrollment Form

Download and complete the Student’s Enrollment Agreement (SEA) form or obtain one from our Call Centre at any of our Campuses, print and complete it and submit it with proof of payment for the stipulated registration fees together to any of our Campuses before the stipulated application deadlines to avoid paying late application/registration fees. To be considered for approval, the completed enrollment agreement form must be accompanied by certified copies of documents as stipulated on the Student’s Enrollment Agreement (SEA) form.

Applicant must ensure that:

  • The enrollment agreement form is properly and fully completed and that each page is initialed and signed;
  • He/she provides all the required documentations such as certified copies of qualifications, Identity Card/Pass port photos, Supporting letters from employers,
  • He/she deposits registration fees into the respective Campus’ Bank Account provided on the enrollment agreement form and submits original copy of the deposit as proof before being issued with an official receipt
  • He/she is issued with an official Institutional Receipt, stamped with Official Company Stamp and Signed by the Head of Call Centre for every payment made to the MUTAS .
  • Please note that MUTAS does not receive cash payments, all payments must be directly into the bank account with student’s number as reference
  • He/she obtains a written acknowledge letter confirming that his/her completed enrollment agreement form has been received
  • He/she obtains status of his/her application for studies within 30 working days.
  • If admitted, an Admission letter issued by the Admission section in the Office of the Registrar, must also be obtained through the respective Campus together with the Time Table, Syllabuses, and any other information.

What must I have to qualify?

The Certificate in Civil Engineering has been designed on the assumption that it is available, without artificial barriers which restrict access and progression, to everyone who can achieve the required standard.

However, applicants who meet any one of the following will be prioritized as they are likely to benefit more readily from the programme:

  • Admission on our three (3) years Bachelor of Technology programs is based on a minimum requirement of twenty-five (25) points in grade 12 (now grade 11) in five (5) subjects with an E or better symbol in English. English shall be part of the five (5) subjects you must have completed.
  • Admission on our four (4) years Bachelor of Technology programs which includes a one year Certificate (Bridging) Level 4 is based on meeting the minimum requirement of twenty (20) points in Grade 12 in five subjects with a minimum of an E or better symbol in English. English shall be part of the six (6) subjects you must have completed.
  • Admission on our four (4) years Bachelor of Technology programs through Mature Age Entry is based on a minimum requirement of twenty six (26) points in Grade 10 (now grade 9) in five subjects with a minimum of E or better symbol in English, age of twenty three (23) years and above, and five (5) years, or above, of working experience in a related field.

Resources for Prospecting Students

Resources for Registered Students

  • Students Handbook
  • Institutional Calendar
  • Learning and Assessments Policies
  • Qualifications Specifications
  • Assessments Schedules
  • Recorded Lessons’ Presentations
  • Virtual Classrooms
  • Virtual Library
  • Virtual Laboratories
  • Study Manuals and Books